Up, up and away!

From youngsters looking hardly big enough to take the strain to hardened enthusiasts in their 80s, they came for as far afield as Portsmouth to enjoy Tendring's first kite festival.

More than 200 experts and beginners armed with kites of all shapes and sizes demonstrated their skills to an enraptured crowd of over 1,200 at Dovercourt's Low Road recreation ground yesterday (Sunday).

The showpiece for the fast growing sport was blessed with sunny weather and a light breeze.

Stephen Howard, of Clacton-based Force Nine Kites, which help stage the event, said: "Everyone had a really good time - it's been an excellent day."

And now it is is hoped to make the festival an annual event. "I would like to do it again and the Kite Society of Great Britain is very keen," said Stephen.

Throughout the day there were displays and youngsters had the chance to design and make their own kites and then fly them in the arena.

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